DIY: Stuck Hatch Release Fix (<$3)

[spearfish25]

I went to the Nissan dealer today armed with the copy of the service invoice another member posted showing which springs his dealer used to fix the hatch release issue. My dealer just stone-walled me stating they wouldn't be able to replace the springs with anything other than what the car initially came with. Then they said I'd have to leave the car for a day so they could look the problem over. A trip to the parts window revealed the 'new' springs would cost $49 EACH. Something had to give.

I went to Home Depot and bought an 8 pack of rubber stoppers that one usually uses for the feet of furniture or for door stops. The height is about 1/8" but you can buy a few sizes and choose for yourself. Total cost < $3.

Place one rubber stopper on each spring surface where it makes contact with the car when closed (the part of the spring with the little bumps on it). If the stopper's adhesive isn't strong enough, add a small piece of super duty double sided tape to hold it in place.

The end result: A brisk, firm 'pop' when you push the hatch release and no more stuck hatch issue.

Problem fixed...screw you Nissan.